Transforming Furniture: Celebrating Clei's 60-Year Legacy
A Journey of Innovation and Timeless Design
In 2023, Resource Furniture proudly celebrated the 60th anniversary of Clei, the Italian visionary behind our exquisite, multifunctional wall beds that epitomize luxury and transformative living.
Since 1963, Clei has revolutionized the concept of transforming furniture, redefining the cumbersome Murphy beds of the early twentieth century into seamless, adaptable systems that effortlessly enhance any living space. Their story is not merely a chronicle of product evolution—it is a testament to the relentless pursuit of human ingenuity and exceptional design.
The Origins of Transforming Furniture: A Legacy of Adaptability and Ingenuity
While multifunctional furniture may appear to be a contemporary concept, its origins trace back to ancient civilizations. The earliest folding chairs crafted by the Egyptians and the first hideaway desks from the Middle Ages showcased the enduring human desire to maximize space. The Industrial Revolution reintroduced this ingenuity, as city dwellers sought creative solutions to make modest living spaces more functional.
By the late 1920s, the iconic Murphy bed had made its mark as a pioneering solution to space constraints. This advertisement (above) for "Murphy-In-A-Dor Beds" from 1928 perfectly captured the spirit of the era—an innovative concept that allowed urban dwellers to maximize their limited living space. However, despite their practicality, these early designs often lacked the refined elegance and seamless functionality that modern luxury demands.
Clei's introduction to this landscape in 1963 marked a pivotal moment in the history of transforming furniture. With a commitment to reimagining these space-saving solutions, Clei envisioned a world where multifunctional furniture would not only serve practical needs but also embody sophisticated style and unparalleled craftsmanship.
Clei: Elevating Transformative Living Since 1963
Recognizing the potential to transform ordinary living spaces into extraordinary environments, Clei pioneered a new standard in multifunctional design. The Colombo family, hailing from Northern Italy, infused the world of wall beds with their passion for innovation and elegance. Their revolutionary approach to design saw them move beyond the mere concept of "hiding" a bed within cabinetry, instead crafting pieces that served dual, or even triple, functions—day and night.
For example, Clei’s introduction of a table to their classic pull-down bed in the 1970s was more than just a clever addition; it represented the world’s first truly multifunctional wall bed design. This pioneering spirit set the stage for decades of groundbreaking innovations, such as revolving queen-sized beds with integrated shelving and wall beds that seamlessly transform into sofas. Each piece reflects Clei's unwavering dedication to combining form, function, and luxury, enabling users to optimize their space without sacrificing style or comfort.
Resource Furniture: Bringing Clei's Vision to North America
In 2008, Resource Furniture embarked on a mission to introduce Clei's transformative designs to North America, recognizing an alignment in vision and values. With an eye for exceptional craftsmanship, founders Ron Barth and Steve Spett curated a collection that would redefine luxury living for American households. As the exclusive North American distributor of Clei's multifunctional furniture, Resource Furniture has consistently upheld the ethos of quality, sustainability, and transformative design.
The timing was impeccable—families faced with the challenges of smaller living spaces and evolving lifestyles were introduced to Clei’s innovative solutions. Multifunctional wall beds that transform into sofas, desks, and dining tables allowed individuals to reclaim their living spaces, offering unparalleled adaptability and comfort.
The Future of Transforming Furniture: A Commitment to Sustainable, Luxurious Living
Today, as we step further into the 21st century, Clei and Resource Furniture continue to lead the way in multifunctional design. New advancements, such as the LGM 2.0 revolving wall bed and Tonale sofa wall bed with motorized opening mechanisms, demonstrate an unwavering commitment to pushing the boundaries of what is possible. These pieces are not just furniture—they are an invitation to experience a new way of living, one where luxury, sustainability, and functionality coexist harmoniously.
The transformative nature of our furniture has never been more relevant, as homeowners seek solutions that support flexible, 24/7 living. Our dedication to crafting exquisite, space-maximizing furniture ensures that every square foot of your home serves a purpose, creating a lifestyle that is both elevated and adaptable.
A Legacy of Innovation and Inspiration
Resource Furniture proudly upholds Clei's 60-year legacy, redefining how we interact with our spaces. As pioneers in transforming furniture, we invite you to explore our collection and experience the luxury of multifunctional living.
Transform your space with adaptable, high-end design. Discover how every square foot can be elevated to its fullest potential. Consult with our design experts today and embrace a more beautiful, sustainable way of living.
